Vancouver restaurants for delicious hot dogs

Much in the same way that movie theatres and the scent of buttery popcorn can never be separated, hot dogs have a distinctly nostalgic element. These savoury snacks bring up memories of Little League games and beans-and-weinies at home. Thankfully there are more and more places in Vancouver serving the humble hot dog in a variety of grown-up flavours and styles. [Photo © Yellow Pages / Pages Jaunes]

Vancouver restaurants for delicious hot dogs
Grace McRae-Okine By

Fritz European Fry House

1
718 Davie St, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1B6

While Fritz’s Fry House already has a distinct specialty (fries, and lots of ’em), their hot dog is a special late-night only treat that’s not to be missed. Most of the crowd at Fritz is fairly soused and willing to wait for their poutine fix, but don’t miss the humble hot dog here! These guys are made with care – with steamed buns and all. Plus, you can load them up Montreal style, and they’re always available vegetarian as well.

This business is featured in the following Smart Lists:

Japadog (Food Truck)

2
530 Robson St, Vancouver, BC V6B 2B7

It’s difficult these days to call yourself a true Vancouverite without having sampled a Japanese-style hot dog at the legendary Japadog, and it’s nigh impossible to miss out on a visit to one of their many locations if you’re just passing through our fine city. Japadog has toppings you’ve never dreamed of; so let your imagination soar. The Terimayo is a classic first choice, before digging into the full assortment of varieties. My favourite is the Ume Katsuo, which features Japanese pickled plum.

This business is featured in the following Smart Lists:

The Heatley

3
696 Hastings St E, Vancouver, BC V6A 1R1

The Heatley specializes in fanciful cocktails and hearty, comfort foods from years past. The Heatley hot dog is your go-to here; nestled in a toasty bun, smothered with salsa and sprinkled with hickory sticks for extra crunch. Perfect for kids and adults alike, The Heatley also pours a myriad of craft beers, so settle in and put all thoughts of watching your carbs aside for the night.

Vera's Burger Shack

4
1925 Cornwall Ave, Vancouver, BC V6J 1C8

Vera’s, much like Fritz’s, is plagued by a name problem. Yes, the burgers play a starring role, but the hot dogs come in a close second. The dogs here are served straight up, and there’s nothing to complain about that. Each Vera’s location – be it in Kits, UBC, Gastown, or the West End – is astonishingly close to the seaside, so place your order to go and enjoy a dog and fries on the beach.

Mean Poutine

5
718 Nelson St, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1A8

For the inebriated, the “I haven’t eaten since breakfast and it’s now 7:00 pm” crowd, and the hot dog enthusiasts, Mean Poutine has you covered. These calorific creations are named to deliver; the Mac ’n’ Cheese hot dog is a dog topped with gooey pasta, while the Pizza Dog is (you guessed it!) a hot dog topped with pepperoni slices, mozzarella, and marinara sauce. Be warned that this is a street front space, so you’ll need to find an open bench or sit on the curb while scarfing down your meal.

This business is featured in the following Smart Lists:

Caffe Brixton

6
212 Georgia St E, Vancouver, BC V6A 1Z7

Let’s say you’re a vegetarian (or don’t mind a veggie dog or two). Let’s say you live in East Vancouver (specifically Strathcona), and let’s say that you’re strapped for cash. Let’s also say that the day of the week is Tuesday. Where should you go when the craving for a veggie dog takes over? Why, you should be at the Brixton enjoying their $1 veggie dogs all night! Chilli and cheese add-ons keep things simple, while a plethora of hot sauces and free toppers (pickled jalepeños are the star) are also available.

This business is featured in the following Smart Lists:

Costco Wholesale

7
605 Expo Blvd, Vancouver, BC V6B 1V4

Ask anyone who frequents (yes, frequents) Vancouver’s downtown Costco specifically for the hot dogs, and they’ll tell you: they’re magnificent. Simple? Sure. Cheap? At $1.50 each (and that includes a bottomless pop), you bet. Delicious? Absolutely! Go for the Polish hot dog, which is actually a delicious Polish sausage masquerading as a meagre dog. Don’t forget to load up on sauerkraut, pickles, ketchup, mustard and onions before heading out with your snack in hand.

Falconetti's East Side Gril

8
1812 Commercial Dr, Vancouver, BC V5N 4A5

More a sausage house than a hot dog joint, Falconetti’s is famous for its house-made sausages, on display in the window of the butcher shop next door. Featuring favourites like merguez, spicy Italian and Polish on crusty buns, as well as more innovative offerings like the Thai chicken topped with coconut, curry spices, hoisin and ginger and the Cajun-style chorizo, it’s hard to choose just one. Thankfully, they have a sampler platter: your choice of three complete with accompanying dipping sauces and fries.

This business is featured in the following Smart Lists:

What's Up ? Hot Dog!

9
2481 Hastings St E, Vancouver, BC V5K 1Y8

What's Up? Hot Dog is the true reigning Queen of Dogs in Vancouver, and for good reason! The meats here are locally sourced 100 per cent all-natural Two Rivers beef, kid and vegetarian/vegan friendly options abound, and they’ve even got corn dogs! What more could you ask for? Your best bet is to eat here heartily, and often.

This business is featured in the following Smart Lists:
More from Grace McRae-Okine Grace McRae-Okine
With an addiction to all things internet and a passion for live music, you'll find Grace wherever both the Wi-Fi and the coffee are strong. Her ideal day in Vancouver includes taking in foreign horror films on Netflix, searching for the perfect gin cocktail in Gastown, and nodding along at underground concerts 'till the wee hours. When she isn't hanging out with her Bengal cat Basil, she's promoting shows for Timbre Concerts.
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